It is great that the Linux Mint Team is getting noticed like that but...... No offense meant by this, Mint 8 is built on Karmic (Ubuntu) why would you want to release something that "unpolished" to the very people you are trying to reach? I don't ever remember problems with laptop sound cards, external monitors, driver installation, and etc, etc being so problematic in Mint 7. Since the next LTS release isn't until spring (late spring) wouldn't it be wise to lead with the "stronger foot" and NOT pull a Micro$oft?

Just asking

"Linux allows for one thing above all else - 'A user can truly be themselves!'"